As the UK basks in the warmer, longer days of summer, it’s tempting to think of property concerns as a winter-only affair. However, the summer months offer a crucial window for proactive property maintenance. Addressing potential issues now can prevent them from escalating into costly problems like damp, timber decay, or pest infestations when the colder, wetter weather returns.
At Wise Property Care, we understand the unique challenges properties face throughout the year. This summer guide focuses on key areas where a bit of attention can go a long way in preserving your home’s health and value, with a particular emphasis on preventing issues that our specialist property surveys and treatments are designed to resolve.
1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters: Your First Line of Defence Against Damp
Summer’s clearer skies provide the ideal opportunity to inspect your roof. Look for slipped or broken tiles, damaged flashing, or signs of moss growth. While a minor leak might seem insignificant in dry weather, it’s a prime pathway for penetrating damp to enter your property during autumn downpours.
Crucially, ensure your gutters and downpipes are clear of debris. Blocked gutters can cause rainwater to overflow, saturating external walls and leading to localised damp problems. A professional eye during a property survey can often spot these early warning signs before they become serious issues.
2. Check Exterior Walls and Foundations: Guarding Against Moisture Ingress
Walk around your property and examine external walls for cracks, crumbling mortar, or damaged render. Also remember to check that ground levels remain 150mm below damp course level and that soil in borders has not been piled up walls. These breaches in your building’s envelope can allow moisture to penetrate, leading to damp ingress and potential timber decay within the wall structure. Pay close attention to the base of your walls; signs of efflorescence (salt deposits) or discolouration could indicate rising damp or other moisture issues originating from the ground. Early detection through a thorough damp survey is vital.
3. Improve Ventilation: Combatting Condensation and Woodworm
Warmer weather can sometimes lead to increased indoor humidity, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows when appropriate and regularly using extractor fans. Good airflow is paramount in preventing condensation problems, which, if left unchecked, can lead to mould growth and create conditions conducive to wet rot in timbers.
While woodworm might seem like a hidden problem, summer is often when the adult beetles emerge, leaving tell-tale exit holes. Proper ventilation and addressing any underlying moisture issues in timber are key preventative measures, as woodworm larvae prefer to infest damp timber. If you spot tiny boreholes or fine sawdust (frass) around wooden structures, it’s wise to arrange a woodworm survey promptly to assess the extent of any timber infestation.
4. Attend to External Timbers: Decks, Fences, and Outbuildings
Summer is the perfect time to clean, repair, and re-treat external timber structures like decking, fences, and garden sheds. Exposed wood is vulnerable to wet rot if not properly protected from moisture. Regularly inspect these timbers for signs of decay, softness, or fungal growth. While these might seem less critical than internal timbers, their decay can sometimes contribute to overall property moisture issues and allow water ingress.
5. Clear Around Your Property: Maintain Good Drainage and Airflow
Keep vegetation, particularly large trees and shrubs, trimmed away from your home’s walls. Overgrown plants can trap moisture against the brickwork, contributing to penetrating damp. Ensure that drainage channels around your property are clear and functional, directing water away from your foundations. Good airflow around the perimeter of your building is essential for managing ground-level moisture.
Proactive Property Care with Wise Property Care
Taking these steps during the summer can significantly reduce the risk of serious property problems. However, if you’re concerned about existing signs of damp, suspect a woodworm infestation, or simply want the reassurance of a professional assessment, Wise Property Care is here to help.
Our experienced surveyors conduct comprehensive property surveys, including specialist damp surveys and timber surveys, to accurately diagnose issues and recommend the most effective treatments, when required. From expert damp proofing solutions to targeted woodworm treatment and dry rot treatment, we provide lasting remedies to protect your investment.
Don’t let hidden issues spoil your summer or lead to greater expense later. Contact Wise Property Care today to discuss your property concerns and arrange a professional survey. Our team is ready to ensure your home remains healthy, dry, and structurally sound for years to come.
